Gwendolyn Walker

Gwendolyn Walker was born on January 30, 1951 in Harvey, Illinois to Cornell Walker, Sr. and Sophronia (Carpenter) Walker. Gwen was the second of four children. She was preceded in death by both parents and her sister, Patricia Ann Bible.

Although Gwen was born in Illinois, she spent the majority of her life in Indianapolis, IN. She graduated from Crispus Attucks High School in 1969. Shortly after high school, she was hired at Methodist Hospital. In the early eighties, she began her journey as a nurse by completing her certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Ivy Tech Community College. She went on to obtain her bachelors degree and nursing credentials as a Registered Nurse (RN) through Marian College (University) in 1992.

Classy, fun-loving and adventurous, Gwen loved her family deeply and cherished her friendships. She enjoyed life to the fullest, traveling with family and friends whenever possible before her health began to decline.

Gwen took pride in her education and always encouraged those around her to reach their full potential. She lent a helping hand whenever needed with love and compassion. She had an expansive vocabulary and often demonstrated her love of words through the eloquent articulate way that she often spoke. Gwen was a dedicated care giver. She devoted over 40 years to Methodist Hospital before retiring in 2014.

Along with caring for strangers, she took pride in being a mother. She invested her time and unconditional love into raising two children and also playing a parental role in her nieces’ and nephews’ lives. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. There are so many great things that can be said about Gwen. Her humble spirit, fun loving personality, and all her wisdom will continue to benefit all of us. We can reflect on these memories and celebrate her life to continue her legacy. She will be immensely missed by all of her loved ones.

She is survived by her daughter, Erika (Kohli) Wilson Haywood-Kwesi, son, Yantzy (Roslyn) Wilson, sister, Vanessa Walker-Mabin, brother, Carl (Evelyn) Walker, five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.